Originally Posted by Vidster

I just did a clean install of XP on a 10GB partition (don't make it any smaller as some programs insist on installing on the C: ). I then install all Microsoft updates and change any settings i like (single click to open folders, pagefile size etc).

I then install Acronis True Image on to my D:, get it to make a complete copy of my C: and save it on my D:. Now if i want to reinstall my operating system i simply open Acronis True Image up and select 'Recovery'. point it to my backup and go have a cup of Coffee

All my programs are installed on my D: as well

Vidster......so Acronis puts all your programs back onto the C Drive for you????? I no longer have a seperate partition on my C Drive; preferring my back up drive on USB 2.0 .......
And While you have coffee it does it ALL??? No loading ALL those Programs, and Photoshop with all the plugins.......oh.............where do I get this Acronis????

But this would mean another clean install I think..............Ouch!

I'm not 100% sure but i think saving your backup on your C: is fine. As long as you can boot up your computer Acronis True Image should work fine
There's also the option to create a rescue disk. If your computer point-blank refuses to boot just pop the rescue disk in and True Image will start. From there you just navigate to your backup and go for another cup of Coffee

All programs and settings restored

It's worth noting that True Image will require quite a bit of space on your HD to save the image. Mine is just over 2 1/2GB.